For over 20 years, Sacred Hearts Schools, Atherton (SHS) has delivered on its mission to prepare students for lives of meaning. A Sacred Heart education is an exceptional program that emphasizes parallel growth of intellect, spirit, and heart, and it is strengthened by an outstanding faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a dynamic student body from all walks of life.
Part of the SHS heritage and proud tradition is an obligation to ensure that this powerful experience is accessible to the widest array of promising students, so that financial limitation does not supersede plans for the necessary funds to aid a maximum number of current and incoming families, and during the 2022-2023 school year, a record of $8 million in aid was awarded overall.
Central to the ability to keep pace with financial aid requests is the success of the annual Fund-A-Need effort on auction night. Because most families generally contribute to this appeal, 1 in 5 current students receive the financial assistance they need to continue at SHS, and qualified, aspiring applicants from across the Peninsula are able to join the community and benefit from transformational Sacred Heart experience.
Rent-a-Centerpiece was proud to provide stage and table décor for the 43rd annual auction gala wittingly named The Great Gatorsby. In F. Scott FitzGerald’s novel, the Great Gatsby, the infamous title character exclaims with great passion: “CAN’ REPEAT THE PAST? OF COURSE WE CAN REPEAT THE PAST!”
In the novel Gatsby’s declaration refers to the recapturing of lost love. On March 25, 2023, school director, Richard A. Dioli, proposed to reframe and adopt this phrase as their own celebratory motto and mantra. For once more, faculty, staff, alumni, students, their families and friends have gathered as one community – in the finest gladrags, in high spirits, and with great love for their school and one another – to take part in the annual auction event. THAT was truly one past worth repeating again… and again… and again. With a carefully curated lineup of exquisite items up for bid, the evening promised unforgettable moments and left a lasting impression on all who attended.
As guests arrived at the Sacred Hearts Schools, anticipation filled the air. The breathtaking venue was elegantly transformed, adorned with sparkling floor-standing towers topped with luxurious ostrich feathers and meticulously designed centerpieces. The atmosphere exuded elegance and charm, setting the stage for a memorable evening.
The festivities commenced with a silent auction. The auction is one of the most vital Sacred Heart traditions, as it raises significant support for a wide array of school programs and activities. Everyone’s generous item donations, underwriting support, and countless volunteer hours have helped ensure that the event was nothing short of the “Cat’s Meow,” and among their most successful and memorable.
From luxury vacations and fine jewelry to unique artwork and one-of-a-kind experiences, the silent auction boasted treasures that ignited the passions of all who attended. Bidders engaged in spirited exchanges, eagerly vying for their desired prizes, all in support of Sacred Hearts Schools.
The culinary experience at the 43rd Annual Auction Gala was an unforgettable highlight. Renowned local chefs and culinary experts showcased their talents, offering an exquisite array of gastronomic delights. From delectable hors d’oeuvres and perfectly paired wines to mouthwatering main courses and decadent desserts, the menu catered to every palate, ensuring that the evening was a true feast for the senses.
In the spirit of community and gratitude, distinguished speakers took to the stage, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the invaluable support that Sacred Hearts Schools received from its generous benefactors. Parents, alumni, faculty members, and community leaders shared personal stories, highlighting the profound impact the school had on their lives and the lives of future generations. Their heartfelt speeches underscored the importance of investing in education, inspiring attendees to contribute wholeheartedly to the cause.
As the night progressed, the anticipation grew, and guests gathered in the grand ballroom for the highly anticipated live auction. Led by a charismatic auctioneer, the live auction showcased an impressive selection of exclusive items and experiences. Bidders enthusiastically competed for once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, such as private concerts, luxury getaways, and unique encounters with renowned personalities. The spirited atmosphere and friendly rivalry added an element of excitement, ensuring that every bid raised funds to empower and enrich the educational experience at Sacred Hearts Schools.
In addition to the breathtaking auction, the evening featured captivating performances by talented musicians, dancers, and artists. The entertainment lineup celebrated the diversity of talent within the Sacred Hearts community, captivating the audience with awe-inspiring displays of creativity and skill. From soul-stirring melodies to breathtaking dance routines, the performances served as a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing artistic expression and fostering well-rounded individuals.
As the final gavel fell and the auction concluded, the 43rd Annual Auction Gala at Sacred Hearts Schools emerged as a resounding success. The event raised substantial funds to support scholarships, academic programs, and various initiatives that enable students to thrive and achieve their full potential. The gala’s triumph was not only measured in dollars raised but also in the unity, spirit, and shared commitment to educational excellence that permeated the entire evening.
The 43rd Annual Auction Gala at Sacred Hearts Schools will forever hold a special place in the hearts of all those who attended. Beyond its glittering façade, the event symbolized the power of collective action,demonstrating how a community can come together to create a lasting impact. By nurturing the hearts and minds of students, Sacred Hearts Schools continues to shape the leaders and change-makers of tomorrow, driven by the unwavering support of a community that recognizes the profound importance of education.
The 43rd Annual Auction Gala at Sacred Hearts Schools, held on March 25, 2023, was an evening of splendor and generosity that will be remembered for years to come. From the stunning venue to the incredible auction items, the event showcased the unwavering dedication of the community to provide exceptional education and foster the growth of young minds. As the night unfolded with delightful surprises, heartfelt speeches, and captivating performances, it became clear that the spirit of giving was alive and thriving. The gala exemplified the transformative power of education and emphasized the immense value of investing in the future.
It was with great pride, great pleasure, and great anticipation of what’s to come that Richard welcomed everyone to the 43rd Annual Auction Dinner, THE GREAT GATORSBY… because “a little party never hurt nobody!”
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